THE deadline to decide the future of a closure-threatened meat processing plant has been extended to allow more time for a potential bidder.

Food group Vion, which owns Hall's of Broxburn, agreed the time limit of noon on Friday.

A spokesman for the firm said: "We have been asked by one of the potential bidders for a short extension to the deadline to enable them to finalise their position.

"We have therefore agreed to extend the original deadline to noon on Friday October 12.

"As we stated last week, unless a viable offer is made for the plant, the phased closure plans will regrettably be implemented.

"Therefore, it's important for everyone concerned that we are able to make a definitive decision as soon as possible and we hope to be able to announce the outcome of this process at the start of next week."

The plant employs 1,700 people at Broxburn in West Lothian.

The Dutch owners had said last week, after the end of a 90-day consultation, that the plant would have to close.

Scotland's Finance Secretary John Swinney, who took part in a taskforce to try to save the plant, said two bidders remain.

"The Scottish Government has been committed to doing all that it can to help those working at Hall's of Broxburn and their families throughout this whole period," he said.

"Since Vion announced the proposed closure in July, the Scottish Government and its agencies have taken every action in our power to secure the future of the plant, working with the company and stakeholders.

"We will continue to work with Vion over the coming days as they consider their final two bids.

"We are also ensuring all possible support is being made available to staff. Teams have already been on site and resources are in place to help people who are looking at their options for the future.

"We are also working with West Lothian Council to address the serious potential impact on the local area and the taskforce will draw up a recovery plan to address this and to find jobs for those affected by Vion's announcement."